Nyungwe Forest National Park

Discovering the Wonders of Nyungwe Forest National Park – A Haven for Wildlife, Canopy Adventures, and Bird Enthusiasts

Nestled in the mountainous southwest of Rwanda, Nyungwe Forest National Park stands as the largest remaining montane rainforest in East Africa, extending over 1,015 square kilometers. This expansive park forms a contiguous forest block with Burundi’s Kibira National Park, creating a haven for biodiversity and natural wonders.

The Vitality of Nyungwe Forest:

Serving as Rwanda’s most crucial catchment area, Nyungwe Forest supplies water to 70% of the country. Its central ridge acts as a geographical marvel, dividing Africa’s two major drainage systems, the Nile and the Congo. The source of the world’s longest river, the Nile, is traced back to a spring on the slopes of the 2,950-meter Mount Bigugu within Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Biological Riches Unveiled:

Nyungwe Forest is a treasure trove of biodiversity, boasting over 1,050 plant species, 250 Albertine Rift Endemics, and 200 orchids. Additionally, the park hosts at least 120 butterfly species, 32 amphibians, 38 reptiles, 85 mammals, and 310 bird species, with 15% being Albertine Rift Endemics.

Primate Paradise:

The main attraction at Nyungwe Forest is its diverse primate population, featuring 13 recorded species. The Chimpanzee takes center stage, with an estimated population of 500-1000. Tracking these intelligent creatures is an exhilarating experience, and other monkey species, such as L’Hoest’s monkey and acrobatic Ruwenzori colobus, add to the enchantment of primate encounters.

Chimpanzee Tracking – A Morning Adventure:

Nyungwe Forest National Park offers a unique opportunity for Chimpanzee trekking, an exclusive experience not found elsewhere in Rwanda. Trekking usually begins in the morning, requiring participants to carry essentials such as water, long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, a rain jacket, hiking boots, and a hat. While Chimpanzee tracking is more unpredictable than Gorilla tracking, the habituated Chimpanzees provide glimpses into their lives, whether feeding in the treetops or swiftly navigating the forest floor.

Canopy Walk – A Bird’s-Eye View:

Situated about 1km from Uwinka, the Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walk offers an extraordinary perspective suspended between higher slopes and giant trees. This nearly 200-meter-long metallic walkway, reaching heights of around 40 meters, provides a thrilling experience for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. The canopy walk, while rewarding, may evoke a sense of instability for those with acrophobia.

Bird Watching Extravaganza:

Home to 310 bird species, Nyungwe Forest is a paradise for bird watchers. Of these, 27 are Albertine Rift endemics, with gems like Ruwenzori Turaco, handsome francolin, regal sunbird, and the yellow-eyed black flycatcher gracing the treetops. The forest’s lush vegetation creates an ideal habitat for birds, making the canopy an excellent vantage point for spotting these avian wonders.

Monkey Tracking – A Symphony of Colors:

Beyond Chimpanzees, Nyungwe National Park is a sanctuary for various monkey species. Treks may lead to encounters with Ruwenzori colobus, grey-cheeked Mangabeys, L’Hoest’s monkey, and the playful blue monkey. The forest, adorned with the black and white colors of colobus monkeys, provides a mystical experience.

Hiking Adventures – Trails for Every Explorer:

Nyungwe Forest National Park caters to hiking enthusiasts with its diverse selection of trails, each offering unique landscapes and experiences.

• Bigugu Trail: Providing astonishing views of Lake Kivu and the hills of the Democratic Republic of Congo, this trail is a favorite among bird watchers, showcasing the localized red-collared mountain babbler and an array of wildflowers.
• Ngabwe Trail: Nestled on the slopes of Nyabwe, this circular trail is accessible to those staying at the KCCEM Guesthouse. Ideal for camping, it presents a new perspective on the park’s beauty.
• Kamiranzovu Trail: Leading to the park’s largest swamp, Kamiranzovu, this trail offers a descent from the forested main road to the low-lying swamp within a caldera-like depression.
• Karamba Trail: Known for its ease of access, this trail is a bird watcher’s delight, despite the absence of large trees due to historical human activities.
• Isumo Trail: Originating at Gisakura Tea Plantations, this superb trail leads to the largest waterfall in Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Wildlife Marvels and Avian Symphony:

Nyungwe Forest National Park unveils its wonders through its diverse wildlife, captivating canopy walks, and a symphony of birdlife. With its rich biodiversity, this natural sanctuary promises an extraordinary adventure for every nature enthusiast.

Floral Riches Unveiled: With over 200 tree species, including orchids, flowering plants, and giant lobelia, Nyungwe Forest is a floral paradise. Different vegetation zones at varying altitudes, from Alpine vegetation to tall trees and fern species, create a botanical wonderland. The park’s elevation reveals unique flora, from bamboo and shrubs at 2500m to taller tree species at 1900m.

Embark on an expedition to Nyungwe Forest National Park, curated by Trek Africa Expeditions, and immerse yourself in the enchanting realm of wildlife, canopy adventures, and avian wonders. Experience the magic of this East African gem, where nature unfolds its secrets in the heart of Rwanda’s pristine montane rainforest.